Fundamentals of conservatism in Turkey: Ideas, thinkers

The main objective of this study is to clarify the concept of conservatism which is commonly used but not understood enough in Turkey. In this context, the history and basic concepts of conservatism, emerging from the continental Europe and Anglo-American world, is explained; after that, the development of conservative thinking in Turkish political life is discussed starting with the Ottoman Empire. Conservative thinkers and discourses which are especially founded after the constitution of 1961 are studied; anti-westernism standing out in the 1960s, anti-communism, change, religion and morality subjects are emphasized.